CITY OF LAREDO
CITY
COUNCIL MEETING
M2001-R-05
CITY
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
FEBRUARY 20, 2001
5:30
P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Flores
called the meeting to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
In attendance:
Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor
Alfredo Agredano, Council
Member, District I
Louis H. Bruni, Council
Member, District II
John C. Galo, Council
Member, District III
Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District V
Joe A. Guerra, Mayor Pro Tempore, District VI
Jose A. Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District VII
Juan Ramirez, Council
Member, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City
Secretary
Larry Dovalina, City Manager
Jaime Flores, City
Attorney
IV. MINUTES
None.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
None.
Invitations
None.
Recognitions
a. Recognition of A. Ralph
Cantu Director of the Laredo Outpatient's Clinic for his
outstanding commitment in helping the Veterans of La Salle County,
Jim Hogg County, Duval County, Zavala County, Zapata County, and Webb County.
Mayor Flores reported that she has received letters from several
individuals who have expressed their appreciation for his dedication and
assistance during their time of need.
b. Recognition of United
South High School Boys' and Girls' Basketball Teams for
winning the 30-5A
District Championships.
This
item was tabled for a future date when the players could be available.
c. Recognition of Capt.
Ivan Perez, of the Laredo Police Department who graduated from
the 203rd Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's
National Academy (FBINA), in Quantico, Virginia, in December 2000.
Mayor Flores and the City Council recognized Capt. Ivan Perez for
his dedication and achievements in law enforcement and presented him with a
certificate for his outstanding accomplishments.
Communiqués
Cm. Galo submitted a letter to City Council from a concerned
parent regarding credited hours accorded to individuals who carry out community
service work.
Cm. Guerra read the following letter from the Milwaukee
Metropolitan Sewerage District to City Council:
“As a follow up to our recent conversation, I have included
information on the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District’s decision to enter
into a competitive contract with the United Water Services for the operation of
the District’s two treatment plants, conveyance system, and biosolids
management.
Through the first 33 months of the contract, United Water has met
or exceeded the operating standards set forth in the 10-year contract, which
are more stringent than those set for MMSD by the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources.
The United Water contract also allowed the District to give its
customers an immediate, significant rate decrease, while at the same time
offering stable rates for the foreseeable future. The agreement is expected to save District ratepayers $140
million over the term of the contract.
As a result of the contract, the MMSD Commission was able to reduce its
total user charges by 15.5 percent when it adopted the District’s 1999 Operation
and Maintenance budget.
If you have any additional questions, please contact me.”
Sincerely,
Anne Spray Kinney
Executive Director
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. expressed his appreciation to the Community
Development Department, in particular Code Enforcement Officer Roy Garcia, for
his support in coordinating a clean up effort on Bristol Road and improving the
aesthetic appearance of the area.
Mayor Flores stated that she received a commission as an honorary
admiral in the Texas Navy from Governor Rick Perry.
Luis Diaz de Leon spoke before City Council on the proposed
monument for the Medal of Honor recipients.
He mentioned that he has been in contact with several Council Members to
work on raising funds through private contributions in order to complete this
project swiftly. He stated that his
group has been told that funding for this project will be considered at some
point in the future once department funds are reviewed during the budget
workshops in August. He wants to
request that the Veterans Coalition be allowed to open a bank account
designated as the Monument Account and be allowed to accept monetary
contributions from the public at large.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that there are some issues
that must be addressed. The City
Manager’s Office has offered to hold a meeting with the Veterans Advisory
Committee tomorrow to discuss this at length with the group.
Horacio De Leon, Assistant to the City Manager, stated that he
recently met with Mr. Diaz de Leon where he communicated to him that the City
Manager’s Office needs to meet with the Veterans Advisory Committee to see how
this proposal is coming forward. The
proposal initially was to build a Veterans Monument on city property with city
funds. The proposal under consideration
now is to build a monument on city property with private donations. He mentioned that the City Manager’s Office
needs to meet with the Legal Department to decide who the treasurer would be,
how these monies would be collected, who would have approval over the design of
the monument, etc.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, suggested that perhaps the group
could meet informally with Horacio De Leon to make some of these decisions at
this time.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
None.
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing authorizing
the City Manager to revert the 28.5 acre-feet of municipal
water rights to the Sacred Heart Children's Home (Grantor) at the
expiration of the water rights contract and authorizing the City Manager to
execute all releases.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager to revert the 28.5 acre-feet of
municipal water rights to the Sacred Heart Children's Home (Grantor) at the
expiration of the water rights contract and authorizing the City Manager to
execute all releases.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
2. Public hearing amending
the City of Laredo FY 2000-2001 budget in the amount of
$12,395.00 from program income towards the purchase of equipment
for the Immunization Action Plan Project budget of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period September 1, 2000 through August 31, 2001.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo FY 2000-2001
budget in the amount of $12,395.00 from
program income towards the purchase of equipment for the
Immunization Action Plan Project budget of the City of Laredo Health Department
for the period September 1, 2000 through August 31, 2001.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
3. Public hearing amending
the Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Administration,
Article I, In General, Section 2-3. Fees for City Services,
Subsection (b) providing for postage, certified mail - return receipt requested
at the current prevailing rate, and outside the U.S., or Priority, Express or
International mail at the prevailing rate.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Administration,
Article I, In General, Section 2-3.
Fees for City Services, Subsection (b) providing for postage, certified
mail - return receipt requested at the current prevailing rate, and outside the
U.S., or Priority, Express or International mail at the prevailing rate;
providing for severability; publication and effective date.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
4. Public hearing amending
the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 21, Offenses
and Miscellaneous Provisions, Article V, Alarm Systems,
specifically Section 21-78(g) by clarifying the definition of "Medical
Alert Alarm Notification"; and Section 21-82, by adding a $75.00 service
charge for false fire or medical alarms; and Section 21-89, by increasing the
deadline to appeal; and Section 21-89, by increasing the deadline to appeal a
denial or suspension of an alarm permit, from ten to thirty days; providing for
severability, publication and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 21,
Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions, Article V, Alarm Systems, specifically
Section 21-78(g) by clarifying the definition of "Medical Alert Alarm
Notification"; and Section 21-82, by adding a $75.00 service charge for
false fire or medical alarms; and Section 21-89, by increasing the deadline to
appeal; and Section 21-89, by increasing the deadline to appeal a denial or
suspension of an alarm permit, from ten to thirty days; providing for
severability, publication and effective date.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
5. Public hearing amending
the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 31, Utilities,
Article III, Water, Division 3, Rates and Charges, specifically
Section 31-138(b)(6)(a), Water Rates and availability by increasing the
Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) check services charge from $15.00 to $25.00; and
amending Chapter 2, Administration, Article I, in general Section 2-3, Fees for
City Services, by adding subparagraph (e) to establish a $25.00 charge by all
City Departments for all returned checks, drafts and money orders due to
non-sufficient funds or Stop Payments, and also reversed Credit Card Charges,
providing for publication, severability and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 31,
Utilities, Article III, Water, Division 3, Rates and Charges, specifically
Section 31-138(b)(6)(a), Water Rates and availability by increasing the
Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) check services charge from $15.00 to $25.00; and
amending Chapter 2, Administration, Article I, in general Section 2-3, Fees for
City Services, by adding subparagraph (e) to establish a $25.00 charge by all
City Departments for all returned checks, drafts and money orders due to
non-sufficient funds or Stop Payments, and also reversed Credit Card Charges,
providing for publication, severability and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
6. Public hearing
authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute a Budget
Amendment to the Transit Operations Budget by appropriating additional
revenues, in the amount of $352,539.00 ($314,956.00 from additional State Oil
Overcharge Funds and $37,583.00 from Sales Tax Reserve), and increasing the
Transit Operations Expense Budget by $352,539.00 from $8,916,959.00 to
$9,269,498.00, and authorizing the City Manager to execute said transfers.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute a Budget
Amendment to the Transit Operations Budget by appropriating additional
revenues, in the amount of $352,539.00 ($314,956.00 from additional State Oil
Overcharge Funds and $37,583.00 from Sales Tax Reserve), and increasing the
Transit Operations Expense Budget by $352,539.00 from $8,916,959.00 to
$9,269,498.00, and authorizing the City Manager to execute said transfers.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
7. Public hearing amending
Chapter 19, Motor Vehicle and Traffic, Article XVIII,
stopping, standing or parking and Article X. Impoundment of vehicles of the Code of
Ordinances, City of Laredo:
Specifically Section 19-355, Minimum Fines for Parking Violations,
Section 19-360, Parking Meters, Section 19-375, Definitions, Section 19-378,
Booting or Towing, and creating Section 19-363, Statement Fees, and Section
19-364, Special Fees and Permits, and providing for publication and effective
date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending Chapter 19, Motor Vehicle and Traffic, Article XVIII,
Stopping, standing or parking and Article X.
Impoundment of vehicles of the Code of Ordinances, City of Laredo: Specifically Section 19-355, Minimum Fines
for Parking Violations, Section 19-360, Parking Meters, Section 19-375,
Definitions, Section 19-378, Booting or Towing, and creating Section 19-363,
Statement Fees, and Section 19-364, Special Fees and Permits, and providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND
PRESENTATIONS
8. A. Request by Council Member Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report on
acquiring regional Jet service for the Laredo Houston/Houston
Laredo route, Laredo
Dallas/Dallas Laredo route, with possible action.
Charles
Martens, Chairperson for the Airport Advisory Committee, reported that they
have posted a meeting for tomorrow to assist the Airport Director and Salvador
Rodriguez, Marketing Director, in developing strategies to secure passenger jet
service. He mentioned that last year
was the first year that there were no international flights from Mexico City
into Laredo. They were actually able to
come up with a hard figure of approximately 90,000 passengers that board at the
Laredo International Airport for points north.
They took those numbers and estimated that for every 1 passenger it gets,
the city loses two passengers. He believes
that the committee will unanimously pass a motion tomorrow asking for Request
for Proposals from commercial airlines to committing to deliver those 90,000
passengers and above at a decent and fair ticket price.
Cm.
Bruni stated that if the City cannot get commitments from Continental Airlines
to secure regional jet service to Laredo, then the City should prepare Request
for Proposals immediately.
Jose
Flores, Airport Director, stated that the City is facing difficulties in trying
to convince the major airlines to provide this type of service. He mentioned that Laredo would be very
profitable to them if they were to introduce jet service into our market. He is working with the Airport Advisory
Committee trying to structure Request for Proposals that are in compliance with
Federal Aviation Administration regulations.
They recently met with Continental Airlines and they indicated that they
would be replacing their turbo prop equipment in the Houston hub during
2002. They are also pending a visit to
American Airlines to submit a personal request for jet service. He mentioned that the Valley has provided a
subsidy to the airlines and that is one reason they were able to secure
regional jet service. He further stated that in Laredo’s case, the community
did not want to commit to providing the major airlines an incentive when the
issue was presented for approval.
2. Discussion and possible
action on posting the status of all City of Laredo projects
and ongoing projects
on the City of Laredo Home Page, with possible action.
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, reported that the current
projects have been updated as of today by the Planning and Zoning
Department.
3.
Status report on the proposed recommendation by the Transportation
Traffic and
Safety Advisory Committee
on placing Thomas St. and Maher St. as our new
truck route, with
possible action.
Keith
Selman, Planning and Zoning Department Director, identified what the proposed
truck route is and differentiated between off-system and on-system
roadways. He stated that what has
provided this opportunity to set up these streets as a new truck route is the
construction of Thomas Ave. tied to Gale St. which bisects the new 114-acre
industrial park.
Motion
to accept the recommendations of the Transportation Traffic and Safety Advisory
Committee to place Thomas St. and Maher St. as our new truck route.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm.
Galo
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm.
Bruni
4. Status report on the
possible pollution of Lake Casa Blanca from present or
future commercial and
residential encroachment, with possible action.
Cm. Bruni stated that this item had been placed on the agenda
because of the new residential development to the north of Lake Casa
Blanca. He reported that he placed a
call to State Representative Richard Raymond’s office to ask his staff to talk
to the TNRCC and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and that they submit a
report to the City as to what the components of the water are. He further stated that since the
encroachment is not to a point right now where it would harm the lake, it is
important that the City carefully monitor our residential and commercial
encroachment upon the lake. Also, he
posed the question whether there are any models available to assess the shape
that the dam is in and the possibility of raising the spillway of Lake Casa
Blanca. He mentioned that he would wait
for Rep. Raymond’s office to transmit information concerning this issue and requests
that staff advise the City Council of any commercial or residential
encroachment of the lake.
B. Request by Council Member John C. Galo
1.
Status report on the drainage problem at 400 S. Seymour, with possible
action.
Rogelio
Rivera, City Engineer, reported that his department has submitted a report and
they have in the CIP’s a system for approximately $700,000.00. They could possibly design an abbreviated
system which is what they are currently working on, but it would only be a
temporary solution to the problem. He
stated that what happened at this site is that it used to be a natural drainage
way that was closed off by the fill that was placed in that particular area. He mentioned that a down drain had been
installed in that area to prevent erosion and this had allowed for the drainage
to drain down to 400 S. Seymour and into the creek. He added that they can construct the abbreviated system, however,
they would need for the City to identify a funding source.
Motion
to direct staff to proceed to survey the area in question and have the easement
identified in order to move forward with the project.
Motion
to have city staff contact Mr. Jose A. Castillo on behalf of Iglesia Metodista
Libre Church to provide the City with a public easement as well as to find the
additional funds to complete the project.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Status report on the
finding of additional locations for youth boxing facilities,
with possible action.
John
Vidaurri, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that he had been asked
several months ago to look at potential sites to expand the boxing
program. At that time, he met with a
group from the Veterans Coalition and some Council Members and discussed
possibilities of looking into tax foreclosure properties as potential sites for
boxing facilities. Unfortunately, none
of those properties were suitable for boxing activities. He mentioned that he did offer the use of
the Cigarroa Recreation Center to the boxing group because it is equipped with
a weight room and provides ample space for boxing. He stated that the Canizales Gym is currently being leased to the
Laredo Boxing Club through April, 2002.
Cm.
Galo requested that the Parks and Recreation department staff continue looking
into potential sites for this activity.
Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. recommended considering expansion of one of the city’s
recreational centers.
John
Vidaurri commented that there is some space at a couple of the recreational
centers that may serve as expansion possibilities.
3. Report on the tax
relief available for residents in the vicinity of South Meadow,
who are affected by the construction at the Chacon Creek Bridge,
with possible action.
Mr.
Felix De Leon, owner of El Paisano Drive-Thru, stated the closure of the street
has affected his business to the point where he has had to close down the
business. He is incurring expenses
because he has had to keep the coolers running being that he has some
perishable goods stored there.
Phyllis
Colon, Tax Assessor-Collector, reported that the one recourse that he has is to
examine the loss on the appraised value of the commercial property. She stated that a commercial piece of
property would sell for whatever dollar amount the market would bring and this
is based on what the income is. In this
particular situation, what they foresee is about one year of possible damage to
the property owner’s income stream.
Therefore, they can fill out a form with the Appraisal District
rendering the property asking for Temporary Economic Depreciation. She mentioned that this was done on Mines
Road and on Saunders Ave. during similar road improvement situations.
C. Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Joe A. Guerra
1. Request by Danny La
Duque and members of The BEST Organization to discuss
concerns and issues about the El Lift Vans and issues at the
Laredo Public Library, with possible action.
Danny
La Duque thanked the City of Laredo for complying with TDLR standards but noted
that his organization has been asking the Public Library to include a van
accessible parking space and it has not been done. He mentioned that in April, 2000, the local chapter hosted the
Governor’s Committee for People With Disabilities quarterly board meeting. The Executive Director of the Governor’s
Committee is blind, uses a wheelchair, and uses a van. Another one of the board members uses an electric
wheel chair and a van. These two
individuals did not have access to a parking space to unload their
wheelchairs. The Governor’s Committee
asked him in December, 2000, if the City of Laredo was going to get the Public
Library in compliance with TDLR standards.
John
W. Arndt spoke regarding the operations of the El Lift service provided by the
city to the disabled individuals. He
requested that the City of Laredo help make the transportation costs to the
passengers economically feasible and that all transportation requests from disabled
individuals be fulfilled.
Larry
Dovalina, City Manager, mentioned that the City of Laredo has complied with the
TDLR requirements as detailed in the press release regarding the issues at the
Public Library. He mentioned that all
of the city’s architectural plans are submitted to the Texas Department of
Licensing Review and they submit a response indicating that the proposed
project is approved. He stated that
the city did go through an inspection two years after the fact and not within
30 days of the library’s opening as there is no set time frame for TDLR to
conduct its inspections. He mentioned
that each and every time that an inspection is done, the city complies with the
TDLR requests. He stated that with all
ongoing construction throughout the city, he is able to provide documentation
to show that every time that any concerns are raised, they have documented the
city’s compliance with those issues.
Peter
Behrman, General Manager of El Metro, stated that he met with Mr. Arndt
approximately three to four months ago.
His concern back then was to find a solution to the El Lift limited
transportation services. He responded
to Mr. Arndt by letter with the two objectives that El Metro was trying to meet
to make El Lift more efficient. One of
those areas was the improved booking and grouping of trips and the other area
is the certification of people to use El Lift.
He mentioned that there are some individuals that are using the El Lift
service when they could be using the regular bus service. He stated that they are planning to create
a paratransit advisory committee as well as provide training to some of the
staff members to review requests and in that way tighten up the certification
so that only those individuals that really need the service are eligible to use
it.
D. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez,
Jr.
1. Discussion with
possible action regarding traffic concerns around Farias, Santa
Maria, Finley and
Kazen Elementary Schools.
Cm.
Valdez, Jr. stated that he wanted to determine what the time schedule is for
these improvements.
Roberto
Murillo, Traffic Director, stated that in regards to the elementary schools on
Santa Maria, Farias, and also the Boys and Girls Club, some of the staff
members met regarding the safety concerns within the area. He is proposing to get an inventory of the
area in question to identify the safety concerns. He noticed that one area of concern regarding the children that
use those facilities is that there are some tractors parking on both sides of
the street. This is a safety concern
for them because it blocks the view of the children as they attempt to cross
the street. They are proposing to
install two crossroads with the proper traffic signs and two flashing beacons
to make motorists aware of the pedestrian traffic.
Cm.
Valdez, Jr. inquired whether his department could designate a “no parking” zone
being that there is an elementary school, the recreational center, and the Boys
and Girls Club all in close proximity that creates a crossing problem.
Mr.
Murillo reported that his department is proposing to set up “no parking zone”
signs all along the west side of Santa Maria Avenue. They are proposing to designate a no parking zone adjacent to the
cross walks on the east side of the street as well. He stated that in addition to these remedies, his department is
proposing to relocate a flashing beacon within the school zone on the
southbound direction to alert motorists of the children’s crossing.
Cm.
Valdez, Jr. inquired as to the amount of time it would require to install the
flashing beacons.
Roberto
Murillo stated that they would proceed with the installation of the crosswalk
signs this week and they have placed the order for the flashing beacons which
will be installed as soon as they arrive.
He reported that in connection with these school campuses, Laredo
Independent School District would be reconstructing both Santa Maria and Farias
Elementary. He has been working closely
with Laredo Independent School District in the selection of its traffic
consulting firms that were selected to work on those two schools. He stated he is looking forward to an
opportunity to review the district’s plans regarding many of these concerns.
Cm.
Valdez, Jr. mentioned that over in Kazen Elementary, the administration had
requested a “no parking” designation on the side of the school.
Roberto
Murillo stated that his department would go ahead and address that concern as
well.
2. Discussion with
possible action regarding park improvements in District 7,
specifically, at Father McNaboe Park.
John
Vidaurri, Parks and Recreation Department Director, reported that the first
item being considered was for some concrete steps to be placed between the
football and basketball fields at the park.
He stated that he received an estimate of $5,500.00 for the stair
work. He mentioned that they received
very favorable estimates for the cost of the Little League lighting at Cruz
Field.
The
cost estimates for the flag football fields with bleachers are approximately
$13,400.00 and part of the reason for the low estimate is because Parks and
Recreation is doing some work in that particular area.
The
cost estimates provided by United Independent School District for the proposed
construction of the irrigation lines amounted to $15,000.00 with a tank and
pump included. He mentioned that the
tank and pump are not necessary and he is estimating that the irrigation work
could be done for $10,000.00 or $11,000.00.
Cm.
Valdez, Jr. inquired as to the status of the flooring for the playscape.
John
Vidaurri stated that the Purchasing Department will be accepting bids through
February 27, 2001 and the bid award will be made March 5, 2001.
E. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with possible
action on the status of installing parking meters on the
600 block of Farragut, 600 block of Hidalgo, and the 600-700 block
of San Eduardo.
Roberto
Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that in 1997 the department had reorganized
the boundaries for the parking meters.
The reason that those meters were removed was because they were
constantly being vandalized and they were not generating any revenue. He stated that the boundaries as defined
under the ordinance would need to be amended in order to include these areas
for installation of new parking meters.
2. Status report on the
traffic study for the downtown area around San Agustin
Plaza and the Center
for the Arts.
Roberto
Murillo, Traffic Director, stated that his department is in receipt of a draft
report for staff to review. He
mentioned that he has submitted the comments regarding this study and he should
be receiving a second draft this week which will possibly be distributed to San
Agustin Church and La Posada Hotel for their review. He will be providing a finalized report regarding the outcome of
said traffic study within the next week to City Council.
3. Discussion with
possible action establishing a committee to deal with taxi
operators and shuttle
van operators.
Cm. Ramirez stated
that some of the taxicab operators feel that they are being left without
representation on the Transportation Committee. He wants to consider appointing some of these members on the
Transportation Committee.
Larry
Dovalina, City Manager, stated that the representatives of taxicab operators
have an existing sub-committee of the Transportation and Traffic Safety
Committee. He stated that there are
three taxicab drivers that currently seat in that committee along with two
staff members.
Mr.
Murillo read to City Council the current representatives that comprise said
committee which he chairs.
Mayor
Flores requested that he provide a list to Cm. Ramirez of the membership along
with a copy of the committee agenda for Friday’s scheduled meeting.
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
9. An ordinance setting the maximum speed
limits on that portion of Del Mar Boulevard
between McPherson Road
and Winfield Parkway, within the City limits of Laredo,
Webb County, Texas, as 30
miles per hour and 40 miles per hour, as defined in the
Control Section Map
provided by the City of Laredo, Traffic Safety Department.
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
10. An ordinance closing
as a public easement that section of the 2000 block of
Poggenpohl between Vidaurri and Santa Isabel Avenues situated in
the Western Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, and providing for an
effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
11. An ordinance amending
Ordinance No. 98-O-189, (closure of that section of Zaragoza
St. between Flores and Convent Aves. to vehicular traffic), to
allow entrance and exit by delivery, refuse collector, and grease disposal
vehicles which provide services to merchants abutting said former street,
provided however, that they appropriately use the space designated by the
architectural design of the pedestrian walkway and comply with the provision of
all City ordinances which affect the San Agustin Historic District; and
providing for an effective date.
David Newman spoke in favor of this ordinance.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES
Internet Availability: //www.ci.laredo.tx.us
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinance 2001-O-040,
2001-O-041, 2001-O-042, 2001-O-043, 2001-O-044, 2001-O-045, 2001-O-046.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 2001-O-040 Amending the City of Laredo Code of
Ordinances Chapter 33,
Environmental Protection, Article 1, by repealing Section 33-1 and
approving and adopting Section 33-1 as written hereunder including the
establishment of the Citizen's Environmental Advisory Committee, its
membership, terms of office, methods of appointment, authority, duties, and
other terms and conditions and providing for publication and effective
date. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2001-O-040.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2001-O-041 Amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a child
day care center on Lot 200, Block 10, Del Mar Hills Subdivision, Section I,
Area "A", located at 618 Idylwood Ln.; providing for publication and
effective date. (As Amended) (Mayor Pro-Tempore Joe A. Guerra)
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, reported that he had been instructed
at the last council meeting to research the matter of deed restrictions for the
Del Mar “A” area. He stated that he has
had the opportunity to obtain a copy from the Webb County Clerk and, in his
opinion, the restrictions are very clear in that those lots may not be used for
any other purpose other than residential.
City Council cannot override those deed restrictions to approve a CUP in
that area. He stated that the
applicants might attempt to obtain a change to the deed covenants which
involves obtaining consent from a majority of the residents in the area to
approve the zone change.
Motion to hold this item in abeyance.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore
Guerra
Second: Cm. Ramirez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2001-O-042 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to
execute a lease with
FedJones, L.L.C., for Tract 8 of the Subdivision Plat of the
Laredo Passenger Terminal Subdivision containing approximately 2.82 acres at
the Laredo International Airport. Lease
term is for forty (40) years commencing on March 1, 2001 and ending on February
28, 2041. Monthly rent shall be
$1,740.25 and will be adjusted annually according to changes in the Consumer
Price Index not to exceed 2.5% per year and further adjusted at every 10th
anniversary by an appraisal to determine Market Value; providing for an
effective date. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2001-O-042.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2001-O-043 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to
execute a lease with Laredo
Webb County American
Red Cross for approximately 491 square feet
constituting Suite No.
2 of Building No. S-1 located at 1718 E. Calton
Road at the Laredo
International Airport. Lease term is
for one (1) year
commencing on February
1, 2001 and ending on January 31, 2002, and
may be extended for one
(1) year ending on January 31, 2003.
However,
it is agreed by the
parties that the lease may be terminated by either party
on not less than thirty
(30) days' written notice from the party terminating
to the other. Monthly rent shall be $315.00 and will be
adjusted annually
during the primary and
extension term of this lease according to changes
in the Consumer Price
Index; providing for an effective date.
(City
Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2001-O-043.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2001-O-044 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to
execute a lease with Region
One Education Service
Center for Tract 2, Block 9 of the Subdivision Plat
of Laredo Airport
containing approximately 10,562 square feet
constituting Building
No. 979 located at 4717 Daugherty Avenue at the
Laredo International
Airport. Lease term is for one (1) year
commencing
on December 1, 2000 and
ending on November 30, 2001. However,
it is
agreed by the parties
that the lease may be terminated by either party on
not less than thirty
(30) days' written notice from the party terminating to
the other. Monthly rent shall be $4,525.00; providing
for an effective
date. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2001-O-044.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2001-O-045
An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with
Region One Education Service Center for approximately 4,234 square
feet constituting Building No. 1054 located at 4812 North Bartlett Avenue at
the Laredo International Airport. Lease
term is for one (1) year commencing on February 1, 2001 and ending on January
31, 2002, and may be extended for one (1) year ending on January 31, 2003.
However, it is agreed by the parties that the lease may be terminated by either
party on not less than thirty (30) days' written notice from the party
terminating to the other. Monthly rent
shall be $3,960.00 and will be adjusted annually during the primary and
extension term of this lease according to changes in the Consumer Price Index;
providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2001-O-045.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2001-O-046 An ordinance
amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter
28, Article III,
Division 2, entitled Rental Rates for Facility, Personnel and
Equipment; specifically
§28-86, definitions by clarifying, adding and
deleting terms; also
§28-87, Rates and Fees, by increasing rental rates for
Civic Center Facilities
and equipment, and establishing rates for the
Auditorium Lobby,
grounds, rehearsal and move-in/move-out activities,
and merchandise sales;
providing for severability and effective date. (City
Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2001-O-046.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
13. 2001-R-014 A resolution resolving that the City Manager
be authorized to execute a
Estoppel, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement between the
City of Laredo, as Lessor, and FedJones Laredo, L.L.C., as Lessee, and Commerce
Bank N.A., as Lender, and Federal Express Corporation, as Sublessee, thereby
encumbering the lease agreement approved by Ordinance No. 2001-O-042 dated
February 20, 2001 for an approximate 2.82 acre tract being Tract No. 8 of the
Subdivision Plat of the Laredo Passenger Terminal Subdivision.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-014.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 2001-R-017 A resolution declaring the public necessity
to acquire the "Surface Only"
of one parcel of land for the widening of Springfield Avenue. Said parcel being legally described as the
East 25.44 feet of Lot 5, Block 194, Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb
County, Texas; being delineated on attached copy of City Plat; and authorizing
staff to negotiate with the owner for the acquisition of said parcel by
purchase at market value to be established by a State Certified Real Estate
Appraiser.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-017.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. 2001-R-018 A resolution accepting the donation of the
"Surface Only" of a 0.2580 of
an acre, more or less, tract of land, from the United Independent
School District, for the extension of Avenida Los Presidentes. Said tract of land being situated in Porcion
33, Jose Dionicio Trevino, Original Grantee, Abstract 3084, City of Laredo,
Webb County, Texas; being generally described below, and more particularly
described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A".
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-018.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 2001-R-019 A resolution approving and adopting the City
of Laredo Parks and
Recreation Recovery Action Program 2001.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-019.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 2001-R-020 A resolution accepting the assignment of
2.3404 acre feet of municipal
water rights from the balance of 29.9297 acre feet deeded to the
City of Laredo by Richard E. Haynes in payment of water availability charges
and 3.88389 acre feet of municipal water rights in payment of annexation
charges in connection with the final plat of James Haynes Industrial Park, Unit
III and 2.3715 acre feet of municipal water rights in payments of water
availability charges in connection with the final plat of James Haynes
Industrial Park, Unit I.
Motion to approve Resolution 2001-R-020.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 2001-R-021 A resolution authorizing the removal of the
traffic signal located at the
intersection of Garden Street and Salinas Avenue due to the lack
in conditions that warrant a traffic signal device.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-021.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. 2001-R-022 A resolution accepting the assignment of
49.9445 acre feet of municipal
water rights from the balance of 505.578 acre feet deeded to the
City of Laredo by Vaquillas Ranch Company, Ltd. by applying 6.9 acre feet of
municipal water rights for water availability charges and 12.6 acre feet for
annexation charges in connection with the final plat of Concord Hills Community
Phase I; .865 acre feet of municipal water rights for water availability
charges and .2 acre feet for annexation charges in connection with the final
plat of Concord Hills Community Phase II; 16.2 acre feet of municipal water
rights for water availability charges and 10.8 acre feet for annexation charges
in connection with the final plat of Concord Hills Community Phase III; 1.2795
acre feet of municipal water rights for water availability charges and .4 acre
feet for annexation charges in connection with the final plat of Concord Hills
Community Phase XI; and .5 acre feet of municipal water rights for water
availability charges and .2 acre feet for annexation charges in connection with
the final plat of Concord Hills Community Phase XII.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-022.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. 2001-R-023 A resolution authorizing the use of surplus
proceeds from the City of
Laredo - Public Property Finance Contractual Obligations (PPFCO),
Series 97-B, in the amount of $12,000.00, to repair the pump and for the
purchase of two Akron valves needed to re-certify a 1997 Pierce Saber Fire
Pumper for fire suppression duty. This
truck is being repaired after being involved in a vehicle collision in April
2000.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-023.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
21. Consideration to award
contract number FY01-049, to the LOW BIDDER, Davis Truck
and Equipment Co., Inc., San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of
$128,820.00, for the purchase of three, refuse collection packer units. These refuse packer bodies will be mounted
on these cab and chassis units recently ordered for the Sanitation
Division. Delivery is expected within
45 days after receipt of the cab and chassis units. Funds for the purchase of these units are available in the Solid
Waste Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Consideration to award
contract number FT01-056, to the LOW BIDDER, A-1 Scale
Service, Inc., San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $51,112.00,
for the purchase of a new truck scale and the rehabilitation of the existing
truck scale at the City landfill.
Funding for this project has been allocated in the Solid Waste Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Consideration to
exercise the renewal option for contract FY99-124, awarded to UTW
Tire Collection Services, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated annual
amount of $28,000.00, for the removal and disposal of tires at the City
landfill. The term of this contract
will be for one year with an option to renew for three, additional twelve-month
periods. Staff estimates that
approximately 260 tons of tires will be removed, however, this contract is
based on actual tons of tires removed and disposed from the landfill. Funding is available in the Solid Waste
Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Consideration to
authorize the purchase of six barrier gates and controllers from the
SOLE PROVIDER, Magnetic Automation Corp., Rockledge, Fl., in the
amount of $24,400.00. These barrier
gates will be installed at the Colombia Bridge toll lanes and will be
integrated into the City's automated electronic toll system. Funding is available in the Bridge Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Consideration to
authorize a repair contract to the SOLE SOURCE PROVIDER, Allen-
Stuart Equipment Co. Inc., Houston, Texas, in the amount of
$19,760.00, for repairs needed to the wastewater treatment compressor. This unit provides oxygen for the treatment
process and is one of three used at the Zacate Wastewater Treatment Plant. Funding is available in the Utilities
Department - Wastewater Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Consideration to
approve the bid specifications and authorizing the City Manager to
solicit bids to purchase an Index C Airport Rescue and Fire
Fighting vehicle for the Laredo International Airport. Funding is available in the Land Sale
Proceeds in Account No. 433-3687-565-9004.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Consideration to
refund property tax to the following taxpayers and companies:
a. A refund in the amount
of $653.55 for Guadalupe Moreno, Jr. due to a Webb
County Appraisal District change of value certified by the
Appraisal Review Board.
b. A refund in the amount
of $638.25 payable to the International Bank of
Commerce due to a split property as per Webb County Appraisal
District change of value certified by the Appraisal Review Board.
c. A refund in the amount
of $601.37 payable to Jose M. Soto due to a double
payment. The mortgage company is responsible for the
tax payment.
d. A refund in the amount
of $1,250.73 payable to Ricardo and Diana V. Martinez
due to a double payment.
The mortgage company is responsible for the tax payment.
e. A refund in the amount
of $680.91 payable to Enrique Becerra due to a double
payment. The Laredo National Bank is responsible for
the tax payment.
f. A refund in the amount
of $1,725.51 payable to Eden Park due to a change of
value certified by the
Appraisal Review Board.
g. A refund in the amount
of $568.29 for Belinda Lou Gonzalez due to double
payment made by the
taxpayer and the mortgage company.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Consideration to
approve monthly adjustments to the tax roll.
The amount to be
adjusted for the month of January, 2001, which represents a
decrease in levy, is $53,001.43. These
adjustments are determined by the Webb County Appraisal District and by Court
Orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Consideration to adopt
the revised City of Laredo Protocol Handbook Second Edition
and the revised Priority Procedures Handbook for the Mayor and
City Council Second Edition and to include allowing other technical and
clarifying corrections to the handbook, as defined by the author and consistent
with the intent of the Council.
Motion to approve with changes as per Dr. Zaffirini.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Consideration for
approval of consultant and approval to award an engineering contract
to Sherfey Engineering Company, L.L.C., Laredo, Texas, for an
amount not to exceed $124,800.00 for design and preparation of plans and
specifications for the Extension of Jacaman Road from Bob Bullock Loop west to
the Airport property line and Sinatra Parkway from the current terminus of
Sinatra north to the intersection of Jacaman Road in conjunction with the
Laredo Entertainment Center Project.
Funding is available in the Purchase Professional Services.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Consideration to
approve award of an engineering contract to Naismith Engineering,
Inc., Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $25,000.00 for
design and preparation of plans and specifications for the Feasibility Study to
construct a bridge in the vicinity of Zacate Creek by San Francisco Avenue and
Canal Street. Funding is available in
the Community Development 26th Action Year Canal Street (San Francisco Study).
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration to
approve award of an engineering contract to Flores Engineering
Company, Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $62,000.00 for
design and preparation of plans and specification for the Shiloh Drive Widening
(IH 35 to McPherson Road). Funding is
available in the 2000 C.O. Issue Shiloh Widening.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Consideration for
approval of Change Order No. 3 to the construction contract with
Ramos Industries, Inc., Pasadena, Texas, for the Railroad Overpass
with Retaining Walls and Approach Road to Unitec Industrial Center Phase 7, EDA
Project No. 08-01-03264 to add 164 calendar days to the construction contract
time for delays beyond the contractor's control. Funding is available in the EDA - Unitec Overpass Fund
Improvement Other Than Buildings.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Consideration for
approval for final Change Order No. 3 of $15,448.50 for the balance
of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of the
Cherry Hill Drive Widening (Pappas to Sandman) and approval of final payment in
the amount of $62,517.75 to Ramos Industries, Inc., Pasadena, Texas. Final contract amount is $436,533.00. Funding is available in the 1998 CO Issue
Cherry Hill Reconstruction.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Consideration to award
a construction contract to Pete Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo,
Texas, in the base bid amount of $235,875.00 for the City-Wide
Sidewalks Project No. l2a (33 Blocks) and Project No. l7a (4 Blocks) for a
total of 37 Blocks. Funding is
available in the Community Development 25th Action Year, 26th Action Year, l998
CO Issue, CD Projects/Sidewalk and School Drop Offs.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Consideration to award
a construction contract to Atlas Commercial Services, Laredo,
Texas, in the base bid amount of $28l,639.60 for the City-Wide
Sidewalks Project No. l2b (33 Blocks).
Funding is available in the Community Development 26th Action Year CD
Projects/Sidewalks.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Consideration to award
a construction contract to Pete Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo,
Texas, in the net base bid amount of $275,540.00 for the City-Wide
Sidewalks Project No. l3 (l6 Blocks), Project No. l6 (l2 Blocks) and Project
No. l7b (8 Blocks) for a total of 36 Blocks.
Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Fund Sidewalks and
Century City Sidewalks.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Consideration to award
a construction contract to Pete Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo,
Texas, in the base bid amount of $230,046.75 for the City-Wide
Sidewalks Project No. l4 (37 Blocks).
Funding is available in the Capital Improvement Fund/Sidewalks.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration for
approval of construction plans for the Fire Fighting Training Facility
and authorizing staff to proceed and solicit bids. Funding is available in the Fire Training
Facility Buildings.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Consideration for
approval of New Main Library sign and authorization to place the
project for bids. Funding
is available in the New Public Library Improvements Other Than Buildings.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with PRO-OPS, Inc.,
of Dallas, Texas, for $95,000.00, for services related to the
design and implementation of impact fees for the Utilities Department,
including preparation of line extension ordinances and policies and development
of tools to implement, monitor, and administer the impact fee process. Funding is available in the Water and Sewer
Reserves.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Consideration to fund
an additional year of the contract with the Southwest Texas Rain
Enhancement Association, for $103,934.00 to cover the cost of the
2001 program. The program, which will
run through December 2001, provides coverage of the entire surface of Webb
County. The City will guarantee the
full payment of the program and will collect donations and other commitments
from the County government and residents to defray the cost. Funds for this project come from Water
Availability Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
43. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute a contract with Competitive Government
Strategies for $l50,000.00 for the evaluation of proposals to
privatize the Utilities Department, assistance in selection of a firm, final
negotiation, and transition assistance. The contract is composed of a series of
single phases to lend flexibility to the process. Funding will be done by a combination of consideration fees
($20,000.00 collected from proposers) and water and sewer reserves.
Motion to approve the $20,000.00 for the initial phase of the
contract with Competitive Government Strategies.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORT
44. Status on the
construction of the Skate Park.
John
Vidaurri, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that there has been
significant progress since the last report of February 16, 2001. He stated that construction completion has moved
from 75% to 90% and anticipates that the skate park will be completed this
week. He mentioned that the department
would be doing some bleacher installation and shade over the bleachers prior to
the ribbon cutting ceremony.
45. Adopting the City of
Laredo's Legislative Plan for the 77th State Legislative Session.
Rene
Gonzalez, legislative liaison, provided highlights of the proposals he
submitted on behalf of the City of Laredo to the 77th State
Legislative Session.
Legislation
Inspection Stations Vehicle Registration
Fee
Matching
Funds Tort
Reform
Project
Overruns Competitive
Bids
Off
System Roads 9-1-1
Service
Border
& Corridors Program Texas
Deposit Program
Performance Bonds Sales
& Use Tax
Overweight Permits Tax
Audits
Railroads Rain
Enhancement Program
Traffic Signal Enforcement System Tire
Program
Port Authority Solid
Waste Fee
Endorsements
Texas
Border Infrastructure Coalition
Smart
Jobs Program
Texas
A & M International University
UTSA-Health
Science Campus Extension
Skilled
Workforce
Education
System
Legislative
Policy
Larry
Dovalina, City Manager, commented that this is the first time that the City of
Laredo has submitted a comprehensive package to the state legislature. He mentioned that there was a great deal of
work done by city staff to assist Rene Gonzalez in putting this package
together.
Motion
to adopt the State Legislative Agenda for the 77th Legislative
Session.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8
Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The City Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive
session at any time during this public meeting, when it deems it necessary to
consult privately with its attorney about any item upon this agenda, pursuant
to the provisions of Section 551.071(2) of the Texas Government Code.
46. Request for Executive
Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in
regards to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of
real property for use as City recreational facilities because deliberation in
an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the
governmental body in negotiation with a third person; and return to Open
Session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government
Code Section 551.072 in regards to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease,
or value of real property for use as City recreational facilities because
deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position
of the governmental body in negotiation with a third person; and return to Open
Session for possible action.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session, Mayor Flores
announced that no formal action was taken.
XV. RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS
TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as the Laredo Transit
Board.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Consideration to
approve proposed bus shelter and bench criteria for the City of
Laredo.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
48. Consideration to
approve proposed bus shelter site locations throughout the City of
Laredo.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Consideration to award
a contract to the Lamar Company, L.L.C. d/b/a Lamar
Advertising of Laredo to install and maintain 50 bus shelters with
advertising and maintain 50 additional bus shelters installed by El Metro
without advertising in the City of Laredo.
In addition to furnishing and maintaining shelters as payment, this
contract will provide a minimum of $5,000.00 per year to the Transit Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm.
Ramirez
50. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with QSR
Burgers, One, LLP to construct and operate a Burger King
restaurant in the Laredo Transit Center.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Consideration to award
contract No. FY00-052 to the LOWEST BIDDER, Transtate
Security System of Laredo, for the sum of $19,051.00 for Camera
Equipment and Installation at the Transit Center, at 1301 Farragut St. and at
the Operations/Maintenance facility at 401 Scott St. Funding is available from line item 518-5196-565-9001, Machinery
& Equipment, FTA Grant TX 90-456 8/20.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Amaya
Second: Cm.
Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
52. 2001-RT-001 A resolution authorizing the City Manager to
accept and execute
Amendment No. 1 for Grant Agreement No. 51122F1013 between the
Texas Department of Transportation (State Oil Overcharge Fund) and the City of
Laredo. This amendment will increase
the original contract amount from
$275,584.00 by $314,956.00 to a revised total of $590,540.00 for FY
2001; and providing for grant funds to be deposited in the City of Laredo
Transit Fund.
Motion to approve Resolution 2001-RT-001.
Moved: Cm. Amaya
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as Laredo Transit Board and reconvene as the
City Council.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. Time: 9:50 p.m.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01
through 29 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council
Meeting held on February 20, 2001.
_____________________________________
Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.
City
Secretary